Kelly Cheng: A Detailed Biography
Kelly Cheng, formerly known as Kelly Claes, has made significant strides in the world of beach volleyball. Her journey from a young enthusiast to a world champion is both inspiring and commendable. This article delves into various facets of her life, including her personal background, professional achievements, and more Kelly Cheng Husband.
Early Life and Education
Kelly Cheng was born on September 18, 1995, in Fullerton, California. She attended El Dorado High School in Placentia, California, where she showcased her volleyball talents. Her exceptional skills earned her All-CIF Division 1A and Orange County Register All-Orange County first-team honors. Recognizing her potential, Kelly graduated high school a semester early to join the University of Southern California’s (USC) beach volleyball program. At USC, she pursued a degree in sociology and played a pivotal role in leading the team to two NCAA titles in 2016 and 2017.
Here is a detailed wiki-style table summarizing key information about Kelly Cheng:
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kelly Cheng (née Claes) |
| Date of Birth | September 18, 1995 |
| Age | 29 years old (as of 2024) |
| Birthplace | Fullerton, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) |
| Weight | 79 kg (174 lbs) |
| Education | University of Southern California (USC) |
| Degree | Sociology |
| High School | El Dorado High School, Placentia, California |
| Occupation | Professional Beach Volleyball Player |
| Olympic Participation | Tokyo 2020 (9th place) |
| Major Titles | 2023 Beach World Championships (Gold), 2× NCAA Champion (2016, 2017) |
| Current Partner (Volleyball) | Sara Hughes |
| Spouse | Jordan Cheng (married in 2022) |
| Children | None (as of 2024) |
| Coach | Jordan Cheng |
| Net Worth | Estimated between $1 million – $3 million |
| Hobbies & Interests | Video games, Anime, Dungeons and Dragons, Comic conventions |
| Social Media | Instagram, Twitter |
Professional Volleyball Career
Kelly’s professional journey is marked by numerous accolades and partnerships:
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Partnership with Sara Hughes: The duo had an impressive record of 147-4 during their time at USC. Together, they clinched the AVCA Pairs National Championship in 2015 and went undefeated as juniors.
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International Achievements: Kelly and Sara secured a bronze medal at the 2013 FIVB U19 World Championships and a silver at the 2014 FIVB U21 World Championships.
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Olympic Participation: Kelly represented the USA at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games, finishing tied for 9th place with her then-partner Sarah Sponcil.
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World Championship: In 2023, Kelly and Sara Hughes clinched the gold medal at the Beach World Championships, further solidifying their dominance in the sport.
Personal Life: Marriage and Family
In 2022, Kelly married Jordan Cheng, a distinguished volleyball coach. Jordan graduated from Chapman University in 2013 with a bachelor’s degree in business and later earned a master’s in Coaching and Athletic Administration from Concordia University. His coaching career includes roles at UCI and Concordia, and he has been instrumental in guiding various teams to success. Notably, Jordan has been coaching Kelly since their marriage, and together, they have achieved significant milestones on the international stage.
As of now, Kelly and Jordan do not have any children. They continue to focus on their respective careers and their shared passion for volleyball.
Net Worth
While specific figures regarding Kelly Cheng’s net worth are not publicly disclosed, her successful career, coupled with endorsements and tournament winnings, suggests a commendable financial standing. Her consistent performances and victories in both national and international arenas have undoubtedly contributed to her earnings.
Achievements and Awards
Kelly’s career is adorned with numerous accolades:
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NCAA Championships: Two-time champion with USC in 2016 and 2017.
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FIVB U19 World Championships: Bronze medalist in 2013.
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FIVB U21 World Championships: Silver medalist in 2014.
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World University Games: Gold medalist in 2016 with Sara Hughes.
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Beach World Championships: Gold medalist in 2023 with Sara Hughes.
Personal Interests
Beyond the volleyball court, Kelly has a diverse range of interests. She enjoys video games, Dungeons and Dragons, anime, and attending comic conventions. Her multifaceted personality showcases a blend of athleticism and geek culture, making her relatable to a broad audience.
Conclusion
Kelly Cheng’s journey in the world of beach volleyball is a testament to her dedication, skill, and passion. From her early days in California to her current status as a world champion, she continues to inspire many with her story. As she progresses in her career, the volleyball community and fans worldwide eagerly anticipate her future endeavors